Reflecting on Gloria Steinem’s Impact at the Feminist Seder

With the recent passing of Gloria Steinem, a towering figure in feminist thought and activism, it’s essential to honor her contributions, particularly her role in establishing the feminist seder. This tradition, which began in 1976, connected the iconic women of the Exodus with contemporary struggles for equality, serving as a profound ritual that continues to inspire many.

In New York City, four pioneering feminists—E.M. Broner, Phyllis Chesler, Letty Cottin Pogrebin, and Steinem—initiated this seder with a distinct vision: to weave together ancient narratives of women’s resilience with the modern feminist movement. What emerged was a celebration of their collective strength, which not only lasted two decades but also sparked similar gatherings among women across the Jewish community.

E.M. Broner, who chronicled the significance of this gathering in her book "The Telling," described the experience profoundly: “Those of us who were there were altered.” This space became a sanctuary for women—encouraging expression, solidarity, and intellectual engagement. Their circle eventually expanded to include notable figures such as Bella Abzug and Grace Paley, fostering a rich tapestry of dialogue and support.

The Founding Seder's Humorous Beginnings

The inaugural seder is memorable for its candidness and humor. Steinem arrived at Phyllis’s apartment with a beautifully wrapped cake, unknowingly missing the mark for Passover’s dietary restrictions. Instead of being deterred, she embraced her assignment as the group's wine bringer, a role that humorously highlighted the collective journey of learning and navigating cultural traditions.

When the haggadah used was published in Ms.—the magazine co-founded by Bronem and Steinem—it inadvertently omitted Chesler’s name. Yet, Steinem's dedication helped revive the seder in its second year, emphasizing the importance of continuity in this empowering gathering.

Guidance and Wisdom from Steinem

In a notable moment in 1988, the women decided to allow their daughters—biological or chosen—to lead the seder. Reflecting on the experience, Steinem imparted wisdom that resonated deeply with attendees. Broner remembered her words as akin to commandments: “Trust in the wisdom of everybody. There is no hierarchy. We can learn from everyone. Trust your own wisdom. Follow your joy.” This shift in leadership during the seder highlighted not just continuity but the nurturing of future generations.

Each seder also included the addition of new plagues, with Steinem’s contributions becoming deeply personal. In 1988, she expressed the desire to “stop killing each other with our words,” underscoring the necessity for self-awareness and emotional health in modern discourse. Further plagues she highlighted included the challenge of a fragmented historical narrative and societal issues that continue to plague women today.

Steinem's Role as a Guiding Force

Throughout these gatherings, Broner often referred to Steinem as their Moses—a metaphor for her guiding influence and vision. During one seder, she articulated a profound understanding of humanity, stating we are not defined by borders or nationalistic tendencies but rather by the journeys we share as migratory peoples.

Steinem's reflections during these gatherings often revisited the story of Ruth and Naomi, particularly noting the strength of female bonds and the transformative power of solidarity. This echoed her own journey as a feminist leader whose roots were deeply intertwined with narratives of women's resilience and empowerment.

Preparing for Joy and Connection

In 1996, during a moment reflecting on renewal, Steinem emphasized the importance of preparing for happiness, asserting: “There is no happiness without the preparation for it.” This sentiment encapsulated the essence of the seder—a blend of a rich cultural tradition intertwined with personal growth and communal strength.

As we reflect on Gloria Steinem’s enduring legacy, her contributions to the feminist seder serve as a testament to her belief in the power of women’s voices and stories. The spaces she helped create are more than rituals; they are reflections of a movement that continues to inspire and empower. Thank you, Gloria, for paving the way for generations of women to come.